Community Banking Champions: Joanne McDaid, AVP, Payments Operations Officer

From pastry to payments: Joanne McDaid’s recipe for success in international banking operations

Joanne McDaid, Assistant Vice President of Payment Operations at Atlantic Community Bankers’ Bank, is a passionate and seasoned leader in the community banking sector. She oversees a department that performs crucial functions such as international wire transfers, processing of image cash letter files, and foreign checks. McDaid's commitment to smooth operations highlights her dedication to elevating the success of community banks. On top of that, she is also a professionally trained pastry chef, which you could say is just icing on the cake.

What do you enjoy most about your role in international payments operations at ACBB?

This role is unique because it involves learning about the world's banking environment and understanding how different countries' regulations affect our operations. I enjoy educating small community banks about international compliance, helping them navigate complex global banking rules, and ensuring smooth transactions for their customers.

How did you start your career in community banking?

It all started in high school. My school had a partnership with the community bank in our town, and they offered internships to a few students. It was through an accounting class I took. If chosen, you got to pick which area of the bank to work in, and I chose operations and back office. As part of my schoolwork, I got hands-on experience at the bank, which sparked my initial interest in banking.

Read the full ACBB partnership profile:

 

Partner Spotlight: Atlantic Community Bankers Bank

Did you start working in banking immediately?

No, actually. After high school, I went to culinary school for 18 months. It was intense with only two-week breaks between semesters. During these breaks, I worked part-time at another community bank where my mom worked in the finance department. I learned various aspects of banking, from the call center to finance and marketing. Even though I was aiming to become a pastry chef, I always had a knack for math and enjoyed the analytical side of banking. So, I balanced both careers for a while. Eventually, I found a more permanent role in the finance area of the bank, which offered stability and new learning opportunities. Plus, I enjoyed the variety and challenges that came with banking. 

What do you find most appealing about community banking?

Community banks are deeply involved in local events and support local businesses and charities. For instance, the bank where I worked at hosted events like Relay for Life and organized activities for their staff, such as branch softball games. This sense of togetherness and community involvement drew me in. Additionally, working in different departments during college opened my eyes to the diverse opportunities within banking, making me appreciate how much more there is to banking than just numbers.

What keeps you motivated in your banking career?

The constant changes and learning opportunities keep me engaged. I enjoy taking the knowledge I acquire and passing it on to my staff, who then help educate our client banks. It's rewarding to support the community by ensuring they understand the complexities of international banking and compliance. Additionally, I find it fulfilling to help prevent fraud and educate people on how to protect their money, contributing to the overall safety and efficiency of our banking system.

Do you still make pastries? 

Yes, I do. One of my favorite desserts to make is tiramisu. My husband’s favorite is cheesecake, so I make it often!  

Acceleron builds patented software that allows community banks and credit unions to conduct international payment transactions profitably through a correspondent banking marketplace. Serving over 200 financial institutions and facilitating more than $1 billion in international payments annually, Acceleron helps small banks generate non-interest income and compete more effectively with high-fee big banks. Our solutions integrate seamlessly with top payments platforms, ensuring quick implementation and smooth operation.